After 10 years of success, Mercedes-Benz has unveiled its new series
of E-Class sedans. In previous years, however, caution would have been
taken regarding any dramatic restyling of the venerable sedan. But the
new E320 doesn't adhere to this caution, although it continues as a
benchmark to which other luxury car makers measure success.

The three E-Series vehicles, E300, E320 and E420 are virtually
identical on the outside, but vastly different under the skin, each
using its own, distinct powertrain. We spent a pleasant week behind the
wheel of the mid-level E320.

OUTSIDE - While previous E-series vehicles were purposely styled
without much flair, the new version adds a bit of passion to Mercedes'
prior rational styling commitment. The familiar hood ornament and
signature chrome grill have been retained, but the overall package is
quite different. The redesign has smoothed its shape to achieve a low,
0.29 coefficient of drag, with flush, oval headlamps sweeping into a
highly contoured hood. A new suspension system has allowed the company
to lower the nose of the vehicle, which further enhances its aerodynamic
shape. Also new this year are longer front and rear crumple zones and a
unique subframe assembly designed to break away and slip beneath the
vehicle during a severe frontal impact.

INSIDE - The new E320 has been stretched and widened, which adds
more interior room than before. The interior features new controls, all
placed in logical fashion with clear, analog gauges and simple buttons
for ventilation. E320 is equipped with such standard luxury features as
burled walnut trim and leather upholstery, 10-way power front seats with
memory features, dual climate controls, electric tilt and telescoping
steering column and auto-dimming rearview mirror. Power windows, mirrors
and door locks are standard, along with a remote locking system and an
interesting ventilation system which automatically switches to the
recirculate mode when sensors detect outside pollution levels have
risen. A new, more powerful stereo system is also standard.

ON THE ROAD - While the exterior has changed, the E320 continues to
use the same 3.2 liter inline six cylinder engine that has powered it
for years. With dual overhead camshafts and four valves per cylinder, it
develops a healthy 217 horsepower and 229 lb-ft of torque, but it feels
like much more. By using an advanced fuel delivery system with variable
length intake runners to optimize the engine's torque potential at
different engine speeds, the power delivery is smooth and strong,
surprisingly so since it has to push a car loaded with luxury and safety
features. Noise reduction is a primary goal at Mercedes, and that goal
has been reached as the only noises we heard were the faint sound of the
twin-cam engine, and a bit of tire noise. The sole transmission offered,
a four-speed automatic, shifts firmly under wide open throttle, but more
mundane driving habits give almost imperceptible gear changes.

BEHIND THE WHEEL - Switching from the previous E-Series front strut
suspension to a new double control arm setup, and teaming it with a new
rack-and-pinion steering system has made the ride feel more smooth and
vibration-free, with neither too much or too little steering boost. The
new suspension has also allowed Mercedes engineers to soften its shock
absorbers and stiffen the springs, giving it better defense against
bumps, while maintaining its quiet ride and predictable handling. The
independent multi-link rear suspension of the previous model remains,
while larger diameter four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock control are
standard equipment. The ride is typically Mercedes, as the car soaks
bumps with ease, with violently uneven roads feeling more like perfectly
flat pavement.

SAFETY - In addition to class-leading crash strength, electronic
traction control and anti-lock brakes are standard, as are four airbags,
two in the instrument panel, and two more in each front door panel. An
upgraded driver-controlled traction control system is optional.

OPTIONS - Our test car featured a power glass sunroof at $1070, and
special exterior paint for $685.